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October – November 2026 : Express yourself READ ONLINE

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Voice of the people

October 01 2026

We need to learn how to hear, listen to and empower the voices of people experiencing homelessness. By Emdad Rahman

Homelessness is often described through statistics, sleeping bags, hostels and rough sleeping figures. 


But behind every number is a person with a story, feelings, fears, hopes and, importantly, a voice. 


Sometimes that voice becomes quiet through years of rejection, trauma, poverty, violence and simply being ignored.


That is why expression matters through talking, listening, sharing experiences, asking for help, making choices, laughing, becoming angry, drawing, writing, joining activities or simply having a conversation with somebody who genuinely cares. 


For someone experiencing homelessness, being able to express themselves without judgement can be an important step towards rebuilding confidence, independence and wellbeing.


The latest figures underline how serious matters are, with an estimated 8,748 people experiencing rough sleeping during June 2026 in England, according to Inside Housing. 


London continues to have the highest levels of rough sleeping. 


These figures represent people we walk past, people we meet, people who may be frightened, unwell, isolated or struggling to trust others.


I have seen this through my own contact with Claire (not her real name), someone I have met through community outreach and gradually built a rapport with. 


Claire has experienced many years of life on the streets, which has involved alcohol and substance abuse, violence, trauma and sexual assaults. 


Understandably, she has been shy, distrustful and, at times, angry. When somebody has experienced so much hardship, expecting immediate trust is unrealistic.


Regular contact has helped break down some of those barriers.


A conversation does not magically solve homelessness. Neither does a food parcel. But consistent human contact can create the conditions in which somebody feels safe enough to speak. 


Once a person can express what they need, what they fear and what they want, support can become more appropriate and more personal.


This is where community projects, volunteers and established organisations all have a role.


House of Giving is one example. Its volunteers run a community foodbank, providing practical support while also engaging with people experiencing hardship, including homeless friends. Food sharing is important, but so is the conversation around it. A meal can fill an empty stomach and a respectful conversation can remind somebody that they still matter.


There is a balance, however. Volunteers must never assume they know what somebody needs. Well-intentioned help can sometimes become disempowering if people are simply told what is best for them. 


Good outreach listens first. It respects boundaries, protects dignity and encourages independence rather than creating dependency.


That is why home deliveries and street outreach can be so valuable. Meeting somebody where they are, whether on a pavement, at a community setting or through a share, creates opportunities for relationships to develop naturally. 


A familiar face can become less threatening. A simple “how are you?” can eventually become a meaningful conversation.


Expression also helps volunteers understand the individual rather than seeing only the homelessness.


One person may need food, another may need clothing. Someone else may need help accessing accommodation, healthcare, benefits or specialist services. Another may simply need somebody to listen that day.


The answer cannot be one-size-fits-all.


Community action is at its strongest when compassion is combined with listening, partnership and patience. Volunteers cannot solve homelessness alone, just as charities, councils and professional services cannot do everything alone. Joined-up working creates stronger pathways from crisis towards stability.


Sometimes the first step is not a form, a referral or a service. Sometimes it is simply being heard.

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October – November 2026 : Express yourself

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